Lawrence: The North Canal District

Great Neighborhoods is supporting the work of a group of strategic partners including a coalition of community developers, business people, and city leaders to transform the historic North Canal Mill District by redeveloping the vacant, under-used mills with a mix of commercial and residential uses. The goal is to create a healthy and appealing urban neighborhood that will provide homes for a range of income levels, jobs for local residents, open space and environmental improvements and expanded transit choices like walking and biking.

10-year Goals (2021)

Create 200 units of housing in the North Canal District.

Establish five miles of community paths in Lawrence that connect low-income neighborhoods to parks and commercial areas.

Establish three regional destinations for retail and services.

Establish a municipal Master Plan that includes land use, infrastructure, transportation, and economic development strategies.

Highlights (2012)

Completed construction on 60 affordable rental units at Union Crossing and hosted a ribbon-cutting with more than 200 residents, public officials, and supporters.

Created a viable financial model for the 28,000 square foot commercial development at Union Crossing Phase One.